Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with bold flavor. Juicy shrimp are sautéed until perfectly tender, then tossed with pasta in a silky garlic cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s a quick yet elegant dish that feels restaurant-quality but is easy enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pasta water (as needed)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Pour in the heavy cream and add Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes.
Stir in parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Return the shrimp to the pan, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is well combined and coated.
Serving
Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of herbs. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
Tips
Do not overcook shrimp
Use freshly grated parmesan
Add pasta water for a silky texture
Cook sauce on low heat to avoid splitting
Season at every step
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Can I add spice?
Add chili flakes for heat.
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine or spaghetti are ideal.
